(Clarion, IA) The Clarion Development Alliance paired with the Festival board’s primary goal for Festival 2024 isn’t just a massive, and nicely done, rebranding. The crew is determined to showcase all that Clarion has to offer to visitors. Additionally, they want to remind Clarion residents of the riches that our hometown offers.
It starts with Family Fun Night, organized by Brittany Howison and sponsored by Main Street Business District. Howison is a co-owner of Leah Jean Salon & Boutique, which is situated on Clarion’s Main Street. Families can look forward to 12 to 18 different activities and a children’s movie beginning at 7:00 p.m at the Clarion Theater. The kick-off event also serves as a fundraiser for local organizations like the CGD Wrestling Team. You can expect the master grillers to offer up a tasty dinner.
“We’re really trying to support local organizations this year,” Sam Stumpf, Director of the Clarion Development Alliance, shared. While Festival has always focused on independent vendors and crafters, Main Street businesses have often been overlooked. That prompted the choice to move vendors to the main street rather than center the market at the park, shared Stumpf.
Main Street businesses will be open at the same hours as the independent vendors. For a complete schedule of events, read further in The Wright County Monitor. Businesses are not the only highlight of Festival.
Stumpf noted that the 2024 Parade Grand Marshall is a well-known local, Ev Keller. Keller is known mostly for her engaging, kind personality and festive Christmas decorations west of Clarion. She received multiple nominations to serve as Grand Marshall. Keller will kick off the parade at 10:30 a.m. Saturday is full of family fun and keeping with tradition, Grand Marshall Keller will introduce the live music.
Adult entertainment isn’t far from reach in Clarion over the Festival weekend either. Local bars and restaurants will welcome guests with unique entertainment like Sand Volleyball and Tarot Card Readings.
Celebrate 45 years of the Iconic Clarion Gazebo with us this weekend!
